Last verified: 17 days ago
Goji Berry
Also known as: Lycium barbarum, wolfberry, LBP, Lycium barbarum polysaccharide, goji
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Antioxidant-rich berry with early evidence for eye health, male fertility, and blood sugar support.
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What it does
Goji berry is a bright red fruit from the Lycium barbarum plant, long used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its main active compounds are polysaccharides (LBP), which appear to reduce oxidative...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
28g (whole berry) or 300-400mg extract daily based on study doses
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Found in
ALLMAX Creatine Monohydrate Powder, SkinnyFit Detox Tea, 310 Chocolate Icing Shake and 3 more
What the Science Says
Goji berry is a bright red fruit from the Lycium barbarum plant, long used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its main active compounds are polysaccharides (LBP), which appear to reduce oxidative stress and support antioxidant defenses in the body. Small clinical trials suggest it may improve macular pigment density in the eyes, support sperm health in men with varicocele, modestly lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, and slow cone degeneration in a rare eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa — typically at doses of 28g whole berries or 300–400mg extract daily over 1–3 months.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to cure or prevent age-related macular degeneration. No strong evidence it boosts immunity in healthy people. Won't replace diabetes medication. Not a proven weight-loss aid. No evidence it detoxifies the body. Most studies are small — don't expect dramatic results.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Eating goji berries regularly may increase macular pigment density, a marker linked to eye protection.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 28g whole berries, 5x per week
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Goji berry extract improved sperm count, motility, and morphology in men with varicocele.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 400mg extract daily
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Goji berry polysaccharides modestly lowered blood glucose and raised HDL in type 2 diabetes patients.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 300mg/day LBP extract
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Goji berry mouthwash reduced gum inflammation and boosted salivary antioxidants in periodontitis patients.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Mouthwash form; concentration not specified in study
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Goji berry supplement slowed cone cell degeneration and preserved macular thickness in retinitis pigmentosa.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Not specified (granule form, daily for 12 months)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown for humans; zeaxanthin and lutein from whole berries appear bioavailable based on increased macular pigment and skin carotenoid levels in one pilot trial. Polysaccharide absorption in humans is not well characterized.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Animal (rat) study found goji berry juice at typical human-equivalent doses caused liver enzyme elevations and kidney changes — long-term safety in humans is not established
- Most clinical trials are very small (27–80 participants) and short-term; results may not generalize
- Heavy metal contamination (including lead) has been detected in Chinese herbal medicines including goji products — source and testing matter
- Goji berries may interact with blood thinners like warfarin; consult a doctor if on medications
- Products labeled 'goji' vary widely — whole berry, juice, and extract have different active compound concentrations
Products Containing Goji Berry
See how Goji Berry is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Goji Berry do?
Antioxidant-rich berry with early evidence for eye health, male fertility, and blood sugar support.
What is the effective dose of Goji Berry?
28g (whole berry) or 300-400mg extract daily based on study doses
Is Goji Berry safe?
Animal (rat) study found goji berry juice at typical human-equivalent doses caused liver enzyme elevations and kidney changes — long-term safety in humans is not established
What doesn't Goji Berry do?
Not proven to cure or prevent age-related macular degeneration.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25